EN
Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a 21-amino acid polypeptide, produced mainly in endothelial cells is the most potent mammalian vasoconstrictor peptide known. Haemorrhagic hypotension is accompanied by the increase in plasma ET-1 concentration. The significance of this effect, however, is not clear. This paper reviews the causes of the rise in ET-1 plasma concentration and the role of ET-1 in cardiovascular regulation in haemorrhagic shock.